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In a notable development ahead of the upcoming general election, two high-profile figures in Nepali politics have teamed up. This alliance comes in the aftermath of widespread and fatal young people's demonstrations that rocked the country earlier this year and eventually resulted in the removal of the incumbent government.

A Commitment to Tackle Youth Demands

Media figure Rabi Lamichhane, who leads the Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), and Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah, a one-time rapper, have publicly pledged to prioritize the issues highlighted by the younger generation. This commitment follows the turbulent anti-graft protests that took place in September, which resulted in considerable loss of life.

"Consensus should not be as the leader seeks, it must be what the nation requires," remarked Lamichhane following the agreement was finalized.

The late summer uprising was triggered by public frustration over a temporary government ban on social media platforms. This action served as a spark for underlying discontent stemming from a long period of economic stagnation and persistent allegations of systemic political corruption.

Terms of the Fresh Political Partnership

According to the official pact, the positions for the approaching election have been clarified. Rabi Lamichhane will continue to serve as the leader of the RSP. In turn, Balendra Shah will be the party's candidate for the role of prime minister in the election set for 5 March.

• Rabi Lamichhane: A popular 51-year-old TV host, he established the RSP in 2022, channeling widespread discontent with the nation's older political class. He has in the past served in the posts of deputy prime minister and interior minister. He was not long ago released on bail in a case involving alleged cooperative fraud and organized crime.
• Balendra Shah (Balen): The thirty-five-year-old mayor of Kathmandu is seen as a central figure in Nepal's ongoing political transition. He was instrumental in setting up the caretaker government that took over after the previous administration was removed.

Wider Political Consultations Underway

In a separate development, the sitting interim prime minister recently held meetings with a number of leading political leaders. These talks included ex- prime ministers and the presidents of rival major parties, marking the initial such gathering since the period of the uprising.

After these discussions, the prime minister took to social media to emphasize that holding a credible election is a shared responsibility. The message affirmed the government's dedication to ensuring a secure and fear-free environment for the polls, noting that efforts are being made to eliminate any room for doubt.